EU Commission weighs seconding officials to work in other countries

The European Commission is weighing a major overhaul of its workforce, including seconding more officials from Brussels to EU capitals, accelerating promotions of a new leadership generation, and preparing the institution for artificial intelligence. The proposals were presented during an internal meeting on Monday as part of the Commission’s first comprehensive workplace review in two decades.

“There is an appetite for change,” said Piotr Serafin, the commissioner responsible for human resources, adding that staff are ready for reform. The review, launched last year, aims to make the Commission more efficient and a more attractive employer. Final recommendations are due to be submitted to President Ursula von der Leyen by the end of 2026.

The proposals include shifting more officials from Brussels headquarters to EU capitals to strengthen ties with member states. However, they stop short of abolishing or creating any of the Commission’s 41 directorates-general and do not recommend staff cuts. Instead, the focus is on breaking down silos and reprioritizing work to better use existing resources.

According to a second official, the Commission plans to hire an additional 1,500 staff under the next seven-year EU budget starting in 2028, plus another 1,000 roles across other EU institutions. Serafin noted that the Commission currently employs around 1,500 fewer staff than in 2014, despite growing demands. “The Commission is expected to do more and more,” he said, arguing for adequate funding.

Part of the solution involves rethinking where officials work. More Brussels-based staff should spend time in national administrations to foster cross-fertilization of systems. Recruitment also needs improvement: Serafin singled out the European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO), whose hiring process takes two to three years from application to first salary. “This is not a recipe for attracting the best talent,” he said.

Meanwhile, several senior roles are expected to open soon as officials retire. Among them is Gert Jan Koopman, head of the enlargement department. Potential candidates for his replacement include Michael Karnitschnig and Despina Spanou.